With the school year come new controversies concerning the use and requirement of school uniforms. There are many reasons for it, but there are also very valid reasons not to wear school uniforms. Exploring the “why not” is as important as exploring the reasoning behind why these garments are popular.

What are some reasons not to wear school uniforms?

Many people say that those simple garments hinder the individuality of the young person in question. Often, young people express who they are and what they stand for by the clothing they wear and making regulatory educational attire is going to hinder the individuality of the young person.

The argument behind this has been addressed many fold with the rising popularity in required apparel. However, others would say that the uniforms allow the person to be who they are without the fear of prejudice or ridicule because they cannot afford the more expensive clothing.

Yes, clothing does encourage individuality, but clothing can also encourage prejudice and separation from peers.

Another one of the reasons not to wear school uniforms, as told by young people, is that they inhibit freedom of choice. Do schools not teach freedom of choice? Well, when it comes to mandatory clothing, many folks tend to think it removes that freedom of choice. But the truth is, while young people do have a lot of freedoms, do they have the total freedom they think they deserve?

Young people tend to have rules of their own generally set by parental figures, law enforcement, and yes, even the educational system. There are curfews to obey, there are no drinking laws, no smoking laws, and so many more regulations that even young people must follow. If these regulations are broken, one cannot cry, “But I was just exhibiting my freedom of choice!”

Wearing mandatory apparel in the educational system does not infringe on any rights but sets guidelines for acceptability. Learning these young will greatly aid in adulthood.

Other people claim that school uniforms cost too much. That with rising costs in our markets; families are finding it difficult to set aside money for uniforms while still purchasing clothing for the weekend and holidays. This is probably one of the biggest reasons not to wear school uniforms as told by opponents of these policies.

The truth is school uniforms cost considerably less than most ensembles. In fact, you can get into a complete wardrobe for next to nothing when compared to the name brands associated with young people today. For the price of one brand name pair of shoes, you can get two or more complete outfits.

In addition, you can purchase these garments throughout the year instead of all at once. There is no rush for getting a dozen different shirts and a dozen jeans or shorts. Instead, you will be getting a set ensemble multiple times.

When you want reasons not to wear school uniforms, you will find just about everything under the sun from individuality, to freedoms, and to price. However, the truth is that there are many reasons to wear these ensembles as well. Investigating the possibilities will educate you on what best suits you and your child’s needs.